As part of Nature Week, the first Bioblitz Les Gavarres took place. This biomarathon, an event for nature discovery and surveying, aimed to identify the maximum number of species within a specific area and timeframe.
The activity, organized by the Consorci de les Gavarres of the Diputació de Girona, involved around fifty participants. They took part in various workshops to survey groups of fauna and flora around the Can Vilallonga farmhouse, supported by specialized experts.
The Bioblitz began on Friday, May 22nd, with a nocturnal workshop focusing on bats and amphibians. Throughout Saturday, surveys expanded to include flora, bryophytes, diurnal butterflies, solitary bees, birds, orthoptera, and arachnids.
The diversity of environments and forest structures within a small radius around the Can Vilallonga farmhouse reflects the species richness of Les Gavarres and the Selva plain. The area combines meadows, agricultural spaces, hedgerows, cork oak forests, pine forests, and riparian woodlands, creating habitats for numerous species.
Ten out of the eleven amphibian species known to inhabit Les Gavarres were identified. Regarding birds, thirty-four diurnal species were cataloged, representing various environments, including those found in open spaces, scrublands, and riparian forests.
Vascular flora showed the greatest richness, with 162 species observed, particularly in open areas and riparian zones. The Vilallonga stream environment supports species typical of cooler, humid conditions, while cork oak and stone pine forests dominate the woodland areas, with few alien species.
The bryophyte group also exemplified the diverse environments, with eleven species found on tree bark and trunks. Numerous lichens were observed. Thirteen species of diurnal butterflies were recorded, benefiting from entomophilous flora.
Insects, such as solitary bees, and other invertebrates, were notable for their abundance and diversity. Over forty species of arachnids and ten species of orthoptera were identified.
Finally, four taxa of chiroptera (bats) were identified, finding hunting and refuge areas in this environment.
In total, within an area close to the Can Vilallonga farmhouse, approximately three hundred species were observed, highlighting the extraordinary richness of species and environments in Les Gavarres.
